People with insomnia (the inability to sleep), may be weighed down by trouble falling asleep, unwanted awakenings during the night, and irregular sleep. They may experience daytime drowsiness yet still be unable to nap and are often anxious, irritable, and unable to concentrate.
Sleep problems are particularly common in patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Here are helpful ways to overcome insomnia:
Reduce your Stress level:
Controlling stress in a more positive manner will help your insomnia. Stress causes our minds to wander as we lie awake with countless things going on through our heads. Try to complete your tasks before going to bed and designate chores to others.
Watch your Medications:
“Read side effects before taking any medications“ Some medications contain caffeine as antidepressants; cold and flu medications that contain alcohol; pain relievers that contain caffeine; diuretics, corticosteroids, thyroid hormone, high blood pressure medications.
Your Sleep Environment:
Evaluate your sleep environment and your surroundings. How is the lighting? Is the area overheated easily? Do you work on your laptop/tablet in your bed? Is your pillow accommodating? Adjust the lightning, don’t bring your work into your sleep area or remove the television from your bedroom.
Reduce Your Caffeine Intake:
Assess the amount of caffeine that you are taking in on a daily basis. Measure where your caffeine is coming from whether it is from soda, energy drinks, coffee and/or medications. Taking in too much caffeine can cause body jitters and restlessness. Many nutritional organizations and doctors believe that two to four cups of coffee are safe. However, the sugar found in sodas, energy drinks and that are added to coffee can also cause sleep issues.
Consult a Physician for these medical conditions:
Some medical conditions that cause insomnia are asthma, allergies, Parkinson’s disease, hyperthyroidism, acid reflux, kidney disease, cancer, or chronic pain. If you have any of these medical conditions or other health ailments that contribute to insomnia, make an appointment with your physician.